Peter Obi, has reiterated the need for grassroots-driven leadership
Peter Obi, has reiterated the need for grassroots-driven leadership
Any Politician Who Wants To Rule Must Come Down And Talk To The People In The Market First —Obi
In a recent video on SYMFONI TV, former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has reiterated the need for grassroots-driven leadership, stressing that genuine governance must begin with direct engagement with ordinary Nigerians.
Speaking during a visit to a bustling market in Amark, Obi declared, “Any politician who wants to rule must come down and talk to the people in the market first.” His statement drew loud cheers from traders and residents who gathered to welcome him, reflecting growing public frustration with distant and elitist politics.
Obi explained that his presence in the market was symbolic of a new political culture—one that prioritizes listening to citizens rather than making promises from afar. According to him, leaders who truly desire to govern must be willing to interact with those who feel the daily impact of economic hardship, insecurity, and poor public services.
During his address, Obi painted a grim picture of Nigeria’s current realities, citing widespread poverty, hunger, insecurity, and the collapse of basic healthcare and education systems. He lamented that many Nigerians lack access to primary healthcare facilities, noting that even preventable emergencies have become life-threatening due to systemic neglect.
He emphasized that corruption remains a major obstacle to national development, insisting that public funds must be used for public good. Obi called for an end to the culture of looting and urged citizens to take responsibility by voting for credible leaders.
The former governor used the opportunity to campaign for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate, Dr Moses Paul, ahead of the February 21, 2026, election in Amark. He described the election as the starting point of a broader movement to “take back Nigeria” and build a nation anchored on competence, compassion, and commitment.
Obi concluded by assuring the crowd of his personal integrity and lifelong commitment to public service, urging Nigerians not to lose hope but to believe that a new and better Nigeria is possible through collective action and responsible leadership.
